What is the Chaitra navratri fasting procedure?

The Chaitra Navratri fasting procedure varies from community to community, but there are certain rules and procedures that are same across all communities. Some people observe very stringent measures and don’t even drink water while fasting. Others restrict themselves to just one meal a day. The meals are prepared using special ingredients such as saboodana, singhare ka atta, potatoes and samak ka namak. Elderly people can also include juices, milk and fruits in their fasting diet. Using onion, garlic, turmeric and common salt is not allowed. A strict vegetarian diet is followed and people abstain from alcohol and cigarettes. Vrat (fast) food and ingredients are readily available in the markets.